The giant fashion and lifestyle magazine and brand Vogue has announced plans to open a deluxe cafe in Dubai by the end of the year.
It is being developed in partnership with the Inspired Group, an experienced food and beverage management company that is based in the emirate.
Vogue Cafe Dubai will be situated in the plush retail space The Dubai Mall, which is the world’s biggest shopping centre.
This will be followed by the launch of a GQ Bar in an unnamed international five-star hotel sometime in 2013, revealed Condé Nast, the American publisher of the glossy magazines.
“Vogue Cafe Dubai is our first step into the Middle East market, and together with the GQ Bar, forms an integral part of Condé Nast International’s strategy to expand its celebrated media brands into restaurants and bars around the world,” explained Stuart Nielsen, restaurants director at Condé Nast.
“We are working with the best local partners in Dubai, and will absolutely respect the laws and values of the land.”
Expats should be aware that while the cafe will deliver the very best in international cuisine, created by the publisher’s restaurant chef Gary Robinson, it will not offer any alcohol in compliance with the law in Dubai.
Condé Nast’s decision not to make the luxury cafe exclusively aimed at western professionals has prevented alcohol from being served – such beverages are, after all, available in licensed establishments. It wants the stylish espresso bar to be inclusive.
“We are proud to bring such respected brands to the region,” added Inspired Group co-founder Roger John.
“This development further cements the UAE’s footprint as a key market for international luxury brands. Together with Condé Nast, Inspired Group will fulfil the diversity and demands of discerning consumers across the region.”
This project follows on from the formation of other global branded cafes. Condé Nast operates a Vogue Cafe, GQ Bar and Tatler Club in Moscow, and the company will open another Vogue Cafe in Kiev in 2013.
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